A/N: Alright, so I am so sorry for not updating this story for a while. I actually got an idea from my sister: to pre-write this story; complete it before publishing further (And I also went on hiatus but who cares). If you're reading this, it means I am almost or already done pre-writing the first arc of this story and will be posting a new chapter in a few days or weeks, if I can manage it. I got a lot of positive feedback on the last chapter I published and I'm glad you all like it. Also, as you all probably know, in ancient times, girls married early. They came of age at about twelve years or something. And were married off to some old king with a sagging gut and bad breath. I'll try to increase the age a little here because just the thought of twelve year olds getting married makes me shudder. I'm going to go by facts here, and…a review or comment would be nice. Throw in a couple of votes if you like the chapter. Thank you all for reading and being dedicated to this story.
-TripleHomicide.
(I know that about 95.9% of you didn't read that long A/N, lol. On with the story...)
Four years later…
HECTOR ran a hand through his dark hair, groaning in impatience. The Prince of Troy leaned on the wall, shutting his eyes and waiting. His sisters had been pestering him for ages. They had asked to go out of the palace—to accompany him into the forest. He had refused, but then his mother, Queen Hecuba, had stepped in and ordered him to take them along, for some reason he still didn't know yet. He let his head fall into his hands. If he had known they would take this long to get ready he would've risked disobeying his mother's orders.
The door to Cassandra's chambers creaked open and he let out a loud sigh of relief. His friends had probably been waiting long. All because his sisters were intent on seeing the trees and flowers. He scowled as Cassandra breezed out of her room, her long golden hair billowing around her. She was in a white gossamer dress, which fell to her feet and onto her brown sandals. Her head was crowned with a golden circlet. Hector's dark eyes met his sister's and he said, "Where's Creusa?"
"Here I am." He turned at the soft voice of his other sister, who was two years younger than he was. He folded his arms and said, "What, were both of you having beauty pageants in your chambers or something?" He was unable to keep the exasperation out of his voice.
"Oh, don't be so grouchy, brother," Cassandra's hard voice made him roll his eyes. "We are ready, we can go now."
He grunted in response, eyes shifting to take in the sight of Creusa as she appeared next to Cassandra. She was dressed more simply—a white peplos underneath a brown cloak similar to the one Hector was wearing. He handed Cassandra the cloak he had been holding and waited for her to don it. When his sister was done, he led them towards the palace gates.
"We're not going to be out long, mind you," Hector said decisively. "I'm going to the lake to meet Aeneas and Perseus and you aren't to complain because we'll be walking the entire way. I didn't fetch horses."
"I don't mind," Cassandra said, shrugging. "Beggars can't be choosers, can they?"
Both Hector and Creusa snorted at her words, seeing whom they were coming from. The ends of his lips pulled up in a smile as they walked out. "They can't," Hector finally said. "Now follow me. I know a shortcut."
AENEAS glanced up from the scroll he was reading when he heard the footsteps. A smile was already forming on his lips as he spoke. "Took you long enough, Hec—" His smile fell when his best friend walked into the clearing, two extremely beautiful girls at his heels. He blinked in surprise as he recognised them. Princesses Cassandra and Creusa, Hector's younger sisters. Cassandra was younger by a year and Creusa by two. Which meant Creusa was his age. Sixteen. Aeneas' eyes fluttered over them as he took in the sight of the two oldest daughters of Priam. Cassandra glanced at him, her eyes a little condescending, then looked around the clearing, as if searching for someone. Aeneas looked towards Creusa and their eyes met. His breath hitched.
She was beautiful.
Aeneas couldn't take his eyes off her. She had light brown hair which fell below her shoulders. Her dark eyes were much like Hector's and Aeneas couldn't look away. She was in a brown cloak, which covered the white peplos she was wearing and nothing about her clothes indicated she was of royal descent. But he could tell it was so, just by the way her chin was held up high, her doe eyes full of confidence as she gave him a once-over.
"If you two are done making bedroom eyes at each other, I would like to make some introductions here," Hector drawled, a smirk forming on his lips.
Aeneas blushed, then hurled his quill at the heir to the Trojan throne. "Shut up, you arse."
"Where's Perseus?" Hector inquired.
"Here," The voice of his brother made Aeneas turn. He had been so engrossed in the scroll Apollo had given him that he hadn't even realised Perseus had disappeared from his side. His brother was bare-chested, rising out of the lake and Aeneas snickered silently when both Cassandra and Creusa blushed. Perseus looked seemingly dry and Aeneas' eyes widened in warning. His brother's eyes flickered over to him and Aeneas motioned towards the girls with his head. Perseus' eyes widened and he dove back into the water.
His brother had always refused to use his abilities over water. But sometimes, he lost focus, like what had just happened. Aeneas was sure the princesses would have asked why he had come out of a lake perfectly dry.
He glanced back at them. Cassandra's mouth was hanging open and he heard a splash. Aeneas guessed that Perseus was coming out, wet this time, and the princess was admiring his well-built brother.
Aeneas turned again as Perseus pushed his wet hair out of his eyes. "I was just taking a dip in the…lake."
He cocked his head as he took in the sight of the two girls. Perseus glanced down at his shirtless form. Aeneas silently thanked Apollo that his brother had swam with his strides. "What the Hades?" He heard Perseus silently curse.
"Maybe you should get your tunic on, then I'll explain why I had to come over with these two," Hector said, jerking a hand in his sister's direction, "who, by the way, are going to keep on wishing those strides are off too if you keep on giving them such a nice view."
Aeneas snickered.
"Shut up, Hector," Perseus said, blushing slightly. "Aeneas, toss me my tunic."
Aeneas glanced around him, located the grey piece of clothing, and tossed it to his brother, who put it on like all the demons of Tartarus were after him.
Although it became wet soon after, clinging to his skin and giving the girls more to watch.
"That's definitely not better," Hector plopped onto the ground, motioning to his sisters to sit next to him. Aeneas' eyes followed Creusa as she took a seat. Perseus walked towards them from the bank of the lake, moving to lie on the grass next to Aeneas.
"Alright, what's going on?" The sea-green eyed boy asked.
"They wanted to see the trees and flowers," The prince droned monotonously, rolling his eyes.
"No, we wanted to get out of the palace," Creusa corrected. Aeneas blinked at her soft voice. He saw her glance at him, then turn away slightly, a smile playing on her lips.
"Yes, you get out of the palace every day and we're stuck wearing dresses and looking pretty," Cassandra said, brushing her golden hair out of her eyes.
"But you're girls," Perseus said, snorting. "Shouldn't you enjoy wearing dresses and looking pretty? Besides, it doesn't look like you have to put much effort into it." Cassandra blushed at the obvious compliment which might have been Perseus' very lame attempt at flirting, in Aeneas' opinion.
"Well, yes, but being cooped up in the palace is suffocating," Creusa replied, lifting her shoulders in a shrug as if that was answer enough. Cassandra nodded her agreement, glancing at Perseus once again. They continued talking animatedly for a while, with Hector making jokes at Perseus' expense and Creusa eyeing Aeneas from her spot next to her brother and sister. Finally, Perseus let out a small huff of air, standing. "I'll be back in a few minutes. Who wants berries?"
"I do," Cassandra's eyes lit up. "Are you going to pick berries? I've always wanted to do that." The unspoken question hung in the air.
"Sure," Perseus shrugged, offering Cassandra his hand. Her pale and slender fingers slid into his palm and he hauled her up. "Just stick by my side. This forest is dangerous."
"Have fun, you two," Hector said, smiling mischievously. "And don't do anything mother wouldn't approve of, Cassandra." His sister made a rude un-princess-like gesture to him at the same time Perseus said, "Screw you." Hector burst out laughing and Aeneas couldn't help but join him. Creusa chuckled silently at his side. It was enjoyable seeing his normally detached brother ruffled by Hector's words. Cassandra and Perseus' fading footsteps made him turn back to his scroll.
"What's that?" Creusa questioned, leaning closer to see the piece of parchment. He shrugged, trying to keep the blush off his face as he got a whiff of roses and honeysuckle. He had never been this close to a girl before and his senses were going into overdrive.
"Nothing much," He managed. "Just a story about the heroes of old."
"Oh, can I see?' She asked. He turned slightly so she could see Apollo's scroll. It had in it fighting techniques, stories of gods and monsters and the weapons of the heroes. Aeneas had been reading about a man named Orpheus. A really sad, depressed man.
"It's really detailed," Creusa noted, eyes soaking in the words written in the Trojan language. "Where did you get it?"
"A friend of my father's," He said, trying not to give any sign that he was lying. Creusa [A/N: For God's sake, autocorrect. Stop…autocorrecting Creusa to creases!] nodded slightly and sat up straight. "Tell me Aeneas, what's it like, in the city?" He blinked at the sudden question, then nodded in understanding. She had probably never been into the city-proper before.
"Well—"
"I am feeling extremely left out of this conversation," Hector said, his voice light and teasing.
"That's because you weren't invited to join us," Aeneas pointed out, rolling his eyes and at the same time, Creusa scoffed at her brother and said, "Sod off, Hector." Aeneas grinned at the princess and her choice of words, and said, "Well, I could tell you about the city but what's the fun in that?"
He stood, offering her a hand. He tried to keep calm and silently prayed to his absentee mother to aid him. "Let me show you." Creusa smiled, clearly liking his sudden boldness. She took his hand and he hauled her up.
"I think I would like that. Very much."
"Can I come?" Hector asked, innocently. "I can be a very good chaperone, you know."
"Go bother Perseus and Cassandra instead," Aeneas suggested, glaring at Hector. He turned to Creusa. "Come on." He tried not to feel giddy as they walked away, her hand still in his.
PERSEUS laughed at what Cassandra had said. He had thought she would be snotty and rude like most princesses were said to be, but she wasn't, and it was nice talking to her. Most of the conversation was about Hector and his toe-rag ways. They spoke about inconsequential things, laughing as they talked and walked. Her eyes lit up when they spoke of the city and the temples and he felt sad for her—sad, that she had only ever seen Troy from her chamber's balcony.
They had forgotten about the berries, finding their conversation a lot more interesting. Perseus and Cassandra had spoken, without the titles, without the status and he found that she was really easy to talk to, which he was glad about. He listened as she talked and he found himself being drawn into her dark doe eyes.
"Watch out, you'll—" He slammed into a tree and Cassandra laughed. "Hit that tree."
"Ow," Perseus rubbed his head in pain, biting his bottom lip. Cassandra giggled, walking to him. She came to a stop in front of him, and he caught a whiff of lavender. He stood a head taller than her and Perseus' throat bobbed as he realised how close she was. Cassandra raised a hand to his forehead. "Does it hurt?" She asked, voice low. Her hand went to his now dry hair.
Perseus bit his lip again, and replied, "Not anymore."
Cassandra's eyes flickered to his. He didn't know what was happening. Just that he wanted it to happen. His hands wrapped around her waist and Perseus silently cursed at Aeneas' mother. Cassandra's hand went to his neck. He leaned in closer. His heart was thumping. He was nervous.
He'd only just met her and now he was about to kiss her? Aphrodite's work, surely.
But he didn't care. Perseus leaned forward, and connected their lips.
HECTOR got the shock of his life when he walked into a dense section of the forest. "What the Hades?" His eyes were wide, mouth hanging open as Perseus and Cassandra jumped away from each other. He tried to regain his composure, tried to let the surprise slip away.
"What did I say about this?" He folded his arms, eyes narrowing.
"Not to do it," Cassandra mumbled, looking everywhere but his face. Perseus' hair was unruly and sticking out in odd places.
"I'm so disappointed in you," Hector tried to keep from smiling. "Both of you." He could see Perseus roll his eyes as he tried to tame his hair.
"Come on, Cassandra," Hector motioned to her. "We have to get back home."
"You're such a killjoy, you know that?" His sister hissed. Finally, Hector couldn't keep it in. He laughed. "Come on, sister. We really do have to go. We're going to have to find Aeneas and Creusa first though. They ambled off into the city proper."
"I'll come with," Perseus said. "Aeneas and I also have to get home."
Hector shrugged. "Fine. Let's go."
[A/N: Now we know Hector was one of the first cock-blocks in history, lol]
Two weeks later…
HECTOR ducked underneath Perseus' swing and kicked at him, trying to knock him down. The green-eyed boy leaped over his foot and brought his sword down in an arc. Hector blocked the strike with his round shield and pushed, sending Perseus sprawling. The prince knew he couldn't best Perseus. He was just too good.
Aeneas, who was watching and fiddling with his lyre, said, "Why are we doing this again?"
"I don't see you in that 'we'," Perseus called as he launched himself at Hector again. "All you've done is sit on your arse."
"I find it quite comfortable here," Aeneas shot back. Hector met Perseus' attacks with his own. The son of Anchises had forced him into defending and his onslaughts were so precise and quick that Hector had a hard time keeping up.
"Why didn't Cassandra and Creusa come with you today?" Hector heard Aeneas ask. He dodged a slash and leaped forward, managing to cut Perseus' tunic with a twist of his sword. His sisters had been accompanying him to the lake ever since that day his mother had basically forced him to take them along.
"Mother wanted to have a word," Hector replied, going on the offence this time. "Why, do you miss them? Creusa is quite taken with you, you know. And Cassandra seems to fancy Perseus, for some reason I can't understand."
When Aeneas remained silent, Hector turned to glance at him, hoping to catch a blush. That was his mistake. In a minute, Perseus was upon him, his sword arm moving so quickly that Hector couldn't see him. He disarmed the prince of Troy and knocked him off his feet in one fluid motion. Perseus placed his sword at Hector's neck and smiled widely at his triumph. "Do you yield?"
"Do you even need to ask?" Hector groaned. Bested again.
He heard clapping and laughing a few seconds later. The Prince sat up as Perseus sheathed his sword and caught sight of his two sisters, making their way towards them. They were flanked by at last a dozen guards and Hector forced himself to stand. "You can go now," He said, motioning to the guards, who turned without question. Cassandra and Creusa came to a stop before them.
"Hello," Creusa smiled. Hector felt Aeneas come up next to him. Well, it was time to start third-wheeling again, wasn't it?
"Welcome," Perseus' voice was cheery. Hector spotted a blush on Cassandra's cheeks as the five of them made their way towards the edge of the lake. Perseus sat and Cassandra sat at his side. Hector sat between Creusa and Aeneas, just to see how his friend would react.
Aeneas didn't look too pleased.
"So, what's up with you two?" Perseus asked, dipping his bare feet into the water. "What did your mother need to talk about that was so important?"
"She said…" Creusa started, then blushed, quickly glancing at Aeneas, then turning again. "She said she and Father will be selecting husbands for us soon."
Perseus and Aeneas blinked. Hector was equally shocked. "What?" The prince choked. "Marriage? But—"
"We came of age a few years ago, Hector," Cassandra said quietly, tilting her head to the side. "It was to be expected. I just didn't…it wasn't supposed to be this soon." Hector's expression softened and he squeezed his sister's hand.
"Well, it doesn't matter," Perseus said finally, as always, being the first to recover from hearing shocking news.. "For now, you're not married. You don't know who your husbands will be yet. We're going to show you every inch of Troy before marriage happens." Hector nodded his agreement. Creusa looked at Perseus gratefully.
"Well, how's your training been going?" Creusa asked the three boys. "I heard from Father that he might be holding a tournament to inaugurate you lot into the army."
"Well that would be nice," Perseus said. Hector nodded his agreement. And just like that, the conversation shifted.
PERSEUS and Cassandra held hands as they walked through the woods. Ever since that day in the trees—that day he'd kissed her—he couldn't get her out of his head. They had never actually been alone since; Hector had made sure of that. But now they'd managed to slip away from his brother, the prince and his sister. He didn't like the new talk of marriage but he tried his best to keep it out of his head.
Perseus took a deep breath. The air was humid and he couldn't shake the feeling that something big was going to happen. He didn't know what, though. And that worried him. He and Cass had been talking for next to thirty minutes now and then had slipped into silence, each deciding to enjoy the other's company instead of speaking.
Suddenly the Princess stiffened, stopping short. Perseus glanced at her, arching an eyebrow questioningly. Cassandra's eyes had glazed over.
"What's wrong?" He asked. She didn't move.
"Do you hear that?" Cassandra inquired, head tilting to the side.
His brow furrowed. 'Hear what?" The forest was almost silent. All he heard was her soft breath, along with the sound of the lake.
"The music," she replied. "Can't you hear the music?"
"What?" He bit his lip in confusion. Had she gone mad?
Cassandra didn't answer. Before he could blink she was running—running away from him. Running through the trees, faster than he'd expected of her, entering a part of the forest he had never dared to go into.
"Cassandra! Wait!" He charged after the Princess of Troy, trying to catch up with her. But somehow, she was faster. She kept ahead of him and he lost her after a few minutes.
And then he heard the scream.
Horror. Pain. Anger. He could detect those three emotions from the loud shriek which reverberated across the forest. And he knew exactly whom it belonged to. His eyes widened as he followed the sound, heart pounding, forcing his feet to go faster. What was happening? Had she been attacked?
He burst into a clearing, eyes roaming, trying to locate the daughter of Priam. His eyes widened further when he spotted her, curled in on herself, in the centre of the clearing, shivering and shaking. She was rocking, eyes wide and crazed. Her clothes were torn and her hair was mussed up. Her brown cloak was in a heap beside her. Tears were running down her face and she was muttering incoherently.
"Cassandra!" He panted, moving towards her. Perseus bent slightly, falling onto his knees next to the princess. His hands reached out and he took hers in his. The girl flinched at his touch. "Cass," He repeated, calling her by the name she'd asked him to. "What in Apollo's name happened?" The princess stiffened at the name of his mentor and tried to pull away. Perseus got a sick feeling in his gut. Why had she reacted that way to Apollo's name? "Who did this to you? Was Apollo here?"
She didn't stop shivering. But she nodded. She bent slightly, looking away from him. He had to strain to hear her next words. "A-Apollo was here," She managed. "He gave me a curse for refusing him." And then she cackled. "He cursed me!" Her eyes began to twitch. Then she said in a loud, scratchy voice, while laughing manically, "Woe! Woe to Troy! The blood shall flow like an endless river and the city shall crumble when the one from the mountain comes forth!" Then she laughed again. Perseus turned rigid. What the hades had Apollo done? Perseus licked his lips as she went back to mumbling. He tried to digest her words again. He tried to make sense of it. But the Apollo he knew would never do anything like that. Perseus refused to believe his mentor would curse a seventeen-year-old girl out of the blue like that.
He pursed his lips, clutching Cassandra's hand tighter. She had been cursed, definitely. She had seen something. Apollo had taught him how to recognise the signs of curses. And they were all flashing before his eyes. "It's going to be alright, Cass. I'm here. Nothing's going to happen to—"
"What the Hades did you do to my sister?" Hector's snarl made Perseus start. He turned just as a fist slammed into his jaw and sent him sprawling. Pain swept across his face and he groaned slightly, eyes fluttering shut. A gasp came from a voice he recognised as Creusa's and then he heard the pattering of feet. Perseus knew she was running to her sister, who was screaming her earlier words about woe to Troy again.
His eyes flew open and he spotted Hector, stalking towards him, face filled with rage. Aeneas was white and kneeling next to Creusa, who was trying hard to calm her sister. Perseus spat out blood, glaring at the Prince of Troy as he came. "I did nothing and you know it." He paused for breath, then said, in a quieter voice. "She told me Apollo cursed her."
"What?" Hector stopped, expression changing to one of horror. "What do you mean Apollo cursed her?"
"She just took off and I tried to get to her but she was too fast. I lost her and then I heard a scream and I found her like this." He knew Hector was trying to tell if it was the truth. But Hector also knew that Perseus would never lie. Not in a situation like this.
"Why would—" The prince choked. "Why would Apollo do that?" The rage still wasn't off his face. Creusa flinched at his voice and Perseus spotted Aeneas' hand on her shoulder. Perseus took a step forward. Hector moved in his way. "What if you're trying to mislead me?"
Perseus was hurt. Hurt that his friend would even entertain such a notion. "Would I lie to you?" Perseus gritted his teeth when Hector didn't move. "You can ask her yourself." Hector narrowed his eyes, taking a step forward.
"Stop it!" Creusa shouted. She was crying. "Stop it, both of you! Perseus is telling the truth! He's cursed her. Just like he said he would!"
"What?" Hector spun on her.
"He-he propositioned her…." Creusa said, blinking back tears. "Last night. She told me about it at dawn." Hector ran a hand through his hair in distress. "And she-she refused him." Perseus' eyes widened. What the hell had Apollo been thinking? He glanced at Cassandra. This must have been Apollo's revenge. Creusa began sobbing and Aeneas pulled her into an embrace.
"You need to get her to the palace," Perseus spoke, moving forward. "I'll deal with Apollo…I'll make him pay."
The Prince didn't respond. He moved towards his sisters and Aeneas, bending slightly and placing his hands on Cassandra's shoulders. He slowly lifted her up, murmuring slightly. "Come on," He said finally. "Let's get you home."
Aeneas and Creusa rose too, his brother supporting the other princess. Perseus watched as the four began making their way out of the clearing. Aeneas shot him a look over his shoulder as if asking if it was okay to go with them. Perseus nodded to him, his eyes hard.
Apollo had done this. And Apollo was going to pay.
AENEAS pursed his lips as he watched Creusa and Hector lead their sister into the palace. He'd been friends with Hector for a long time but he'd never stepped foot into the home of the royals. He shook his head, trying to keep his thoughts of Hector attacking Perseus out of his head. Sure, they occasionally bickered and fought but it never got as extreme as this. Aeneas could read Hector like a book though. He knew the prince just wanted someone to blame. He couldn't take it up with Apollo—He'd be incinerated. But Perseus was mortal like Hector was. And he had been there when it happened. Or something like that.
He couldn't understand why Apollo would do such a thing. Their mentor—the god they thought wasn't like the others—had cursed a princess just for refusing his offer to go to bed with him. Aeneas couldn't wrap his head around it. He sighed, making to turn and trek back to the forest to find his brother.
"I want to speak to you, Aeneas," The voice made him stop in his tracks and he spun again as King Priam walked out of the Palace gates.
He dropped into a bow, making sure to keep his head down. "My King."
"Rise." Priam motioned to him with his hand. Aeneas stood uncertainly, soaking in the appearance of the man he only saw on city gatherings. Black hair, slowly turning grey. Wrinkles spread across his face. His robes were regal like Hector's often were and his dark sandals were immaculate. "Follow me," He ordered.
Aeneas didn't dare question him. He licked his lips, waiting for the King to start speaking as they walked into the palace. When he finally did, Aeneas flinched. "Hector just told me what happened in the forest."
Aeneas didn't miss a beat. He replied quickly, heart hammering in his chest. "Perseus isn't at fault. He didn't do anything. He wouldn't."
Priam let out a small sigh. "I know. Good Anchises raised you both. I know neither you nor Perseus would attack a woman." Aeneas visibly relaxed. But then he stiffened at Priam's next words.
"I wish for you to marry my daughter Creusa." The casual way he uttered that statement made Aeneas blink. "What?"
"I want you to get married to my daughter," King Priam said again. Aeneas' eyes had widened. He had to try not to look too surprised as a barrage of thoughts and emotions slammed into his head. He had known this day would be coming. He had known his father had already been thinking about getting Perseus and himself married. He just hadn't thought it would be into the royal family. They had seen sixteen summers now. Like Cassandra had said before, they had all come of age ages ago. Aeneas was at a loss for words. He liked Creusa—a lot, actually. Talking to her felt natural. He didn't have to pretend around her. But marriage? They'd known each other for just two weeks.
When it was certain he was too stunned to respond, King Priam continued, "It's kind of funny actually. I approached your father first. Both you and Perseus are good lads. I heard from Opheltius that you're even better warriors than Hector." Aeneas was still in shock. He hadn't been aware that their instructor complimented them, even behind their backs. "Perseus was to marry Cassandra. She wished it to be so," Priam said. "But after what has happened today…" The distress in Priam's voice made Aeneas frown. He was right. If she had indeed been cursed by Apollo, then no one would want to marry her. Anchises wouldn't allow Perseus to marry her, even if he wanted to. Cassandra would probably never have a husband.
"You are a great warrior, Aeneas. You are wise. You are of age. I know you would be able to look after my daughter."
Aeneas finally got the courage to speak, still unable to believe what was happening. Everything was going too fast. But, if the king wanted him to marry his daughter, who was he to argue? If his father had also agreed, then the wedding would take place, whether he liked it or not.
Creusa was nice, smart and beautiful. And Aeneas had a sneaking suspicion she had known he was to wed her. He also guessed that King Priam had been the one to ask Hecuba to tell them to accompany Hector to meet them daily. He felt a rush of excitement.
Aeneas finally replied, "It would be an honour to wed your daughter." He dipped his head in a bow.
Soon after, he took his leave.
PERSEUS swung wildly, and if Apollo had been mortal, the slash would have cut his arm clean off his body. But he was a god and he managed to avoid the strike. The boy launched into a flurry of hacks and stabs, trying so hard to physically harm the god of the sun. Trying to hurt him like he had hurt Cassandra.
Perseus could see Apollo didn't want to fight him. The god didn't want to attack him. And that made him angrier. He fought tooth and nail, trying to land a hit. Trying to avenge the Princess of Troy. But Apollo just dodged and spun away from the reach of his blade.
"How could you?" Perseus yelled, swinging with so much force that the flat of his blade slammed into Apollo's arm. "You knew I liked her!" The god had the dignity to look guilty. But he didn't fight back. Perseus leaped forward, bringing his sword down in an arc over his head. Apollo blocked the strike and pushed him back.
"Why did you do it?" Perseus asked, panting. When Apollo didn't answer, he roared. "Why did you curse her?!"
He was disgusted. He was revolted, hurt and angry. Disgusted that the patron of the city had asked a girl just a year older than Perseus—and whom he fancied—to go to bed with him. Hurt that the god he looked up to had done such a thing to him. Angry that his mentor had cursed Cassandra for refusing him.
"She insulted me," Apollo's voice was cold. It was the first time he'd heard him use that tone. And it felt like he was talking to a stranger.
"She insulted your pride!' He shot back.
"I gave her a gift," Apollo hissed. "I allowed her to see the future."
"Just so you could woo her," Perseus spat out. 'Which you shouldn't even have done in the first place." Apollo's eyes burned gold. He was glowing in anger. But Perseus knew he'd never strike him down. Not if he wanted to avoid Leto and Artemis' wrath.
"She made me a promise and she broke it. The girl you like so much is a thankless wench," Apollo snarled. "She used me. I am a god, Perseus. I have a reputation to uphold."
"Well keep your reputation, then," Perseus hissed. "Because I know who you really are now. And I never want to see you again."
Two months later…
HECTOR frowned, folding his arms and tilting his head to the side. It had been two months since Cassandra's curse. He had heard about Creusa being promised to Aeneas a while after they had led Cassandra to the Priest of Apollo, to confirm the curse. He felt bad for lashing out at Perseus when it had happened. He'd just needed someone to blame—and he regretted blaming his brother-in-arms. But he hadn't had the chance to apologise—not when Perseus didn't even want to see his face.
It had been two months. Aeneas and his sister were to be married in seven days. He felt glad; he was happy that one of his best friends was going to be part of his family. He supposed Aeneas would be moving into the palace after the wedding. Hector's father would expect no less. He licked his lips. He had also heard from Creusa that Cassandra would have married Perseus. But then Apollo had interfered. Hector wasn't sure he could offer any prayers to their patron god anymore.
It had been two months since Hector had last seen Perseus. Aeneas had told him Apollo hadn't shown his face since that day. They both trained on their own, without the guidance of the god of the sun. Aeneas had said it would be better if he continued staying away —wait for Perseus to cool down. Hector sighed, glancing towards the sea.
He didn't know how he had ended up there, but somehow he'd ambled across the city and to the docks. He also knew what was coming. Or more specifically, who.
His parents were really in the matchmaking mood that year. He'd just seen eighteen summers and now it was time to get married. Apparently, it was wedding season. He supposed he should be grateful. They'd allowed him to stay unwed for a long time, while he should have gotten married years before. Three weddings had been planned. One was cancelled. The other two were to happen on the same day.
Hector wouldn't even get to know his future wife before they were married.
Her name was Andromache. It was a beautiful name, really, and although he had known the day was coming, he had been extremely shocked when his father had informed him. Gifts had been sent. The General himself, with Priam's head advisor had gone to offer them and ask for the girl's hand in marriage on Hector's behalf. The marriage would be one of convenience. It would seal an alliance with Andromache's kingdom, King Priam had said. They were just the final pieces in a deal made by two kings. It would be good for Troy. Andromache's father, King Eetion ruled a vast and powerful land, known as Cicilian Thebes. Having them as allies was beneficial.
When Priam had mentioned Troy, Hector hadn't argued. He wanted his city to prosper. He wanted to give it his best—to be the best king the city had ever seen. Getting married to a girl he'd never really met before wasn't a problem. But he hoped she wouldn't be stuck up and rude. And he did hope they would get along.
"What's with the face?" He hadn't even heard Aeneas come up from behind him, too lost in his thoughts to do so.
"Thinking about the wedding," He simply replied.
Aeneas snorted. "Mine or yours?"
Hector mock-glared at him. At least Aeneas had gotten the chance to know Creusa better. Since he'd heard he'd be married to the second oldest daughter of Priam, they had both been meeting each other, getting to know each other well. By the end of the first month, they were closer than before. By the end of the second, Hector had even caught Aeneas snogging his sister.
He still cringed whenever the memory came up.
He wished his wedding wasn't in seven days. He wished he could get more time to know his future wife before the wedding took place.
"Look, there's no need to worry so much," Aeneas said, voice soft. He didn't turn to face Hector and they both stared out at the sea.
"Easy for you to say," Hector snorted. "Creusa's head over heels in love."
Aeneas blushed slightly, punching Hector in the arm. He laughed at his friend. Aeneas continued, "There's no need to worry about the type of person Andromache will be. You'll only know when they get here. And besides, she can't be that bad." He cracked a smile. Aeneas was always the best person to go to for advice. He always knew exactly what to say. He was right. Hector didn't need to worry. At least, not now. He would find out soon enough. "Of course, she could be fifty. And with wrinkles. Or maybe too short for you. Then you'd have to bend when she wants to—"
Hector smacked his friend in the head, rolling his eyes. Aeneas laughed. The prince cracked a smile.
"I think you're going to get your wish, though," Aeneas' voice held an emotion Hector couldn't place.
"Why?" He finally looked at his curly haired friend.
"Because the ships are here," He stated, pointing out to the sea, where five massive vessels were almost at the docks. "Andromache is coming."
PERSEUS didn't know how to feel. He didn't know what to think. His childhood had just been swept away from him and he wondered where he had gone wrong. He would still be living with Anchises, while Aeneas got married to Princess Creusa. Everything was happening too quickly for his liking.
Aeneas had felt guilty about being happy while Perseus was on the outs with Hector and Apollo. So much so, that Perseus basically had to force him to go out and see Creusa at the palace each day. Hector was also getting married on the same day as Aeneas. His brother and friend-he-was-still-mad-at were both moving into another phase of their lives. And he had been left behind. He was always left behind.
His birth father had left him with his mater.
And then his mater had left him alone in this world.
Leto had left him years ago, saying he needed a real family.
Apollo had betrayed his trust and hadn't shown for two months. Not even to apologise.
Now two of the most important people in his life were moving on with theirs. Without him.
But he was happy for them. He sighed, sheathing the sword at his side. He'd taken to training in the fields behind their small residence and then hunting wild beasts in the forests. He bit his lip and ran a hand through his hair. Perseus' ears suddenly picked up the sound of footsteps. He stiffened, hands going to his side and turned, drawing his weapon as he did so.
"Pater." He nodded to Anchises, sheathing his sword again. The man smiled slightly, hobbling over to him.
"Perseus," His father said his name, coming to a stop next to him. "What's bothering you? You look like your favourite child just died." Perseus glanced at his feet. He'd told Anchises all Apollo had done. He'd told him everything he felt. And in those two months he had spent without seeing Hector or Apollo or properly speaking to Aeneas, Anchises had been his rock. But he'd refused to have him marry someone who was cursed by the gods. Partly because Apollo had ordered that Cassandra become a priestess in his temple. Which made Perseus hate the sun god even more.
"It's just…" He sighed, trailing off. "I just…I have a lot of things on my mind."
"You need not fret about Cassandra becoming a priestess. Surely, there are other girls in Troy suitable to be your wife." His father paused, then said, "It doesn't matter that Hector and your brother are getting married now, you know. It doesn't have to worry you too much." Perseus looked up, pawing his feet on the ground. As always, Anchises could see right through him. He'd noticed that the problem with Cassandra and Apollo was the least of his worries. He could see that Perseus was worried about drifting away from his brother and friend. His father had been there to support him when Apollo's betrayal had hit hard. And then Hector and Aeneas had been betrothed. It just stung. He was happy. Glad, even, that they were happy. But he felt…forgotten.
"Will this feeling ever go away?' He bit his lip. "Everyone I've known has always left me behind. I don't think…I don't think I'll be able to handle it this time."
Anchises smiled softly. "You are god-born, son. You will be able to handle whatever life throws at you. You three have been friends for over four summers now. A bond like that doesn't just disappear due to marriage."
His father's words were reassuring. But Perseus still wasn't convinced. "I'm afraid…" Afraid that he would lose the two most important people in his life. Afraid that they would move on while he was left in the dust. Perseus felt so…empty these days. The absence of Hector and Apollo from his life for two months and his short clipped conversations with Aeneas had made him feel so…lonely.
Perhaps isolating himself hadn't been such a good idea.
"No matter what happens—no matter the situation—you three shall always be brothers."
"He's right, you know," A voice spoke from behind Anchises. Perseus' brow creased. How hadn't he heard them sneaking up to him and his father? He glanced at Aeneas and Hector, the latter who was dressed in princely robes. Perseus instantly guessed why they were there.
Aeneas nodded at Hector's words. "No matter what happens, Perseus, we'll always be brothers. It doesn't matter that we'll be married soon."
"And I'm sorry for being an arse when we last met," Hector said, his voice pained. "I shouldn't have attacked you."
Finally, Perseus found his voice. "You shouldn't have," He agreed. Hector flushed. The prince knew how hard it was for Perseus to let go of a grudge.
"I'm sorry too," Perseus started. "For ignoring you for two months." He paused, then said, "She's here, isn't she?"
Aeneas nodded. 'We came to fetch you."
Hector looked nervous. He was bouncing on his feet, which he only did when he was worried about something. The Prince huffed, then said, "Yeah, we're not meeting my future wife without you." Perseus was silent for a while, then said, "You two go ahead. I'll catch up later."
Aeneas looked unsure. "Are you certain?" Perseus' brother inquired.
He nodded. "I'll come. I promise."
AENEAS glanced behind them, trying to spot his brother through the throngs of people who had flocked to the docks to see their future queen. Andromache and her ships had arrived a few minutes ago but Hector and Aeneas hadn't met her yet. They'd dashed to Aeneas' home when they'd seen the ships and had been lucky to find his father having a heart-to-heart with Perseus.
Now that they knew what he'd been worried about, Aeneas felt guilty. Perseus thought they would drift apart when they got married. They would have royal duties and duties to the families they would start and he was afraid they would not have time for each other.
"He's still not here?" Hector asked, glancing at Aeneas. He looked wounded—he was hurt, that his friend hadn't wanted to come with them to meet Hector's soon-to-be bride. And Aeneas knew he was even more worried that Perseus wouldn't show. At a time like this, they needed all the support they could get. And only the three of them could give it to one another. Aeneas sighed, shaking his head in answer.
Hector slumped.
"Don't worry too much," Aeneas said. "Perseus will be here. I know he will." He tried to sound as believable as possible. But he knew Hector knew he was just saying that to make him feel better. Aeneas glanced at the docks, where the people of Cicilian Thebes were descending from their ships. He could see servants and soldiers, lugging huge chests and gifts from the massive ships. He observed them for a while, then glanced behind him again.
Perseus still wasn't there.
Aeneas sighed, turning to look at the ships again when he heard Perseus' voice. "Already given up on me, have you?" He broke into a grin as his brother came to stand at his left. From Aeneas' right, Hector let out a huge sigh of relief. "Gods, what the Hades is wrong with you, Perseus? I thought you wouldn't show."
Perseus rubbed his nape sheepishly as Aeneas also tossed him a questioning glance. His green-eyed brother answered. "Sorry, I just had to gather my thoughts."
Aeneas sorted, then replied, "You've been doing that for two months now, brother. Whenever is it going to end?"
Hector laughed and Perseus rolled his eyes good-naturedly at Aeneas. "You're—"
"Oh, gods," Hector's surprised voice cut Perseus short. Aeneas looked towards his friend and turned to look in the direction Hector was staring.
'Do you think that's her?" Perseus asked, drawing a breath. Aeneas cocked his head to the side. There were three women, getting off the ship, closely followed by about a dozen soldiers in full armour. Behind them came a man, with whitish-grey hair in white robes. The King of the Cicilian Thebans.
Aeneas focused on the girls. Two of them were veiled, as was the custom for married women. The third was the only one whose face was on full display. She had dark black hair which fell around her face in ringlets and angular features. Her high cheek bones were accentuated with her pale skin and she wore a white gossamer dress, with a diadem on her forehead. She looked lithe and was slim and wore dark brown sandals.
Aeneas looked at Hector. He took note of the unease on his friend's face. "Don't panic," Perseus spoke, his voice a low whisper. Aeneas squeezed the Prince's shoulder reassuringly and said, "It's going to be fine."
Aeneas heard footsteps behind them and the three turned. The royal family was making its way to them. He caught sight of King Priam, Queen Hecuba, whose face was veiled and behind them, their many, many children. Aeneas smiled when he saw Creusa. Cassandra was nowhere to be seen, though. But Perseus could see her twin brother, Helenus. The likeness was uncanny. Aeneas noticed Perseus' jaw harden. The ruling family of Troy came to a stop in front of Aeneas, Perseus and Hector. The three dropped into a bow before the King and his wife.
"Rise," King Priam motioned to them. They obeyed. "Come, Hector, Aeneas. We must welcome the future queen of Troy and her family." A few heartbeats of palpable silence as Aeneas realised what the king had said. Or more specifically, what he had implied.
"What about Perseus, father?" Hector asked, brows furrowed. Aeneas saw his brother tense. But he did not speak.
"He is not a member of the royal family," Priam said, arching an eyebrow. The rest was clearly decipherable. Not like Hector was. Not like Aeneas would be in seven days.
"He's my friend," The heir to the throne spoke indignantly. "I'm not meeting Princess Andromache without him."
King Priam was silent for a while. Aeneas, Hector and Perseus waited with bated breath.
"Fine then," The king said. "All of you, join us. We meet the Thebans immediately." He marched forward, passing them. Aeneas, his brother and Hector stepped in line, next to Creusa.
A new chapter of their lives began that afternoon. As they walked, Aeneas swore a silent oath to himself. He would make sure no one was left behind.
A/N: I took a break for a while before finishing this chapter (which I started in March and ended in June), so please excuse me if it starts off good and becomes horrible at the end. I fear I may be a little rusty. Tell me what you think. Vote, comment, leave a kudos or a review. Thanks for reading!
-TripleHomicide.